Durga Vahini Celebrates Durga Ashtami in Sambhal With Women’s Empowerment Message

Durga Vahini, the prominent unit of the Vishva Hindu Parishad, celebrated the Durga Ashtami festival in Sambhal on Sunday with enthusiasm, devotion and a message centred on the awakening of women’s power. The programme was organised under the leadership of Soni ji, the block convenor of Durga Vahini.

The event began with the lighting of a lamp before an image of Maa Bhagwati. This was followed by the worship of weapons in accordance with Sanatan tradition. The shastra pujan formed an important part of the programme and was linked to the message of self-defence, self-respect and inner strength for women and girls.

Deepa Varshney ji, the district convenor of Matrushakti, attended the programme as the chief guest. Pratiksha Gupta ji, the district convenor of Durga Vahini, was the main speaker. She addressed the women and girls present at the event and explained the broader significance of Durga Ashtami.

Pratiksha Gupta ji said that the festival is not limited to worship and rituals. According to her, it represents the awakening of women’s power, self-defence and self-respect.

She said, “Every form of Maa Durga teaches us to stand firmly against injustice, unrighteousness and falsehood. In the present time, women must recognise their inner strength and play a leading role in the building of society and the nation. A woman is not only the embodiment of affection; when required, she is also the living form of strength.”

The programme also focused on the contribution of women, referred to as Matrushakti, in building a society rooted in values. Deepa Varshney ji, the special guest, spoke about this contribution and highlighted the role of Matrushakti in creating a संस्कारवान society.

At the conclusion of the event, block convenor Soni ji expressed gratitude to everyone present. The programme ended with the Maha Aarti of Maa Ambe and chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai”.

Rajat Malhotra reported on the programme.